Master P's latest, Game Face, fails to score big
By LAURA ROMPF
Scene Music Critic
One might say the most lasting contributions Master P has made to the rap industry is the introduction of his son Lil' Romeo and the annoying yet catchy "Uh" sound that is found on each tune he has participated in since "Make 'em say Uh." With a few exceptions, his latest album Game Face, will not silence the critics.
The first single "Ooooohhhweee" is lighting up the charts on rap stations across the country, but hasn't quite made it to the mainstream pop stations yet. If you've heard it, you know. The chorus starts: "I like the way she shake it in the thong. Oooohhhhweee." The beat is catchy but repetitive.
In "Real Love," with background vocals by Sera-Lynn, Master P raps along sounding a bit like Tupac, while noting another famous rapper, as he says, "I ain't Ludacris, but I'm an all-nighter." The song is fun and upbeat, and could be destine for heavy radio play. Sera-Lynn's hook, "I like the way you do me baby. Keep it real. I like the way you feel. Keep it real." flows easily with Master P's lyrics.
Both "The Block" and "A Woman" are short tracks, but are produced well and have well written, novel lyrics. Once again, Master P sounds a bit like Tupac, especially in "The Block" where he laments about ghetto life.
A huge problem with both pop artists and rappers is once they've been in the business for a while, they start writing about their lives as rappers or famous people.
On "Back on Top," Master P sings with fellow No Limit-ers Silkk the Shocker, C-Murder and Lil' Romeo. It's an OK beat, but frankly nobody cares that No Limit is "Back on Top." Put out a song that shows us why.
"Whoadie Gone," is a good song, which sounds a little like Master P's former hit "Ghetto D." Master P speaks of his brother, grandfather and uncle who have all past away. Though the topic of death is often addressed in rap songs, Master P has some new lyrics like, "Justice and peace only happens in the suburbs," which are novel and creative. The beat and melody flow quite well with the Isley Brothers singing background vocals. The song is one of the best on the album.
The problem with previous Master P albums is there are too many filler songs which decrease the overall quality of the album. Gameface is no different. Songs like "I Don't" and "Rock It" seem mundane and low quality. Simply put, it seems like they were rushed through the writing and production phases.
While the album has some high points, if you're looking for an overall solid rap album, pick up Jay Z's Blueprint or Ludacris's Word of Mouf. They're a much safer bet and more likely to make you say "Uh."
All Scene Stories for Tuesday, February 5, 2002
